Marcelino Nunez’ transition to Mr. Reliable is what’s made him a must-start for Norwich City.

The Canaries midfielder has been in fine form as City's results have improved, taking his impressive club performances international with a goal in Chile's 3-2 defeat by France on Tuesday.

That follows a string of metronomic outings that have seen him become a regular in David Wagner's starting line-up, with the German head coach describing him as one of the first names on the team sheet after his free-kick goal against Blackburn.

Nunez' recent upturn has been a relief for Norwich fans after a challenging start to his time in Norfolk, and Wagner says the key has been cutting mistakes out of his game.

"What he has improved very, very much is his ball possession," the 52-year-old stated of his charge. "He very rarely makes unforced errors, he's very reliable on the ball.

"He got stronger, yes, but physicality was never his biggest issue. He can run 13.5km every game without a problem, even if you play three games a week.

"Obviously because he has such good legs he is always in and around a challenge on the pitch. He is a lion, he is a fighter, he really goes for every challenge, even if he's only [very short].

"This is always great to have in your team, and luckily he scored from a free-kick as well, because he has a very, very good set-piece.

"But the biggest progression he's made has been in being reliable in ball possession. All the other stuff was always there."

It's hoped Nunez will be in contention to start in tomorrow's Championship meeting with Plymouth Argyle, despite returning from international duty on Wednesday and participating only in light training before the game.

Wagner is thankful his friendlies with La Roja were in Europe during the break, however, with his usual South American travel meaning further disruption.

"I'm very happy that he played in Europe," he continued. "He does not have the time changes, climatic changes, the longer flight.

"I saw him in the canteen on Wednesday and he was super tired after the game against France. But I'm very happy that he didn't have all the other stuff he normally has if he goes to South America.

"He is healthy, so we'll have to assess him and make a decision whether he's fresh enough to start the game."